THE SSPCA are seeking information after officers rescued 21 rats who were abandoned throughout the West Lothian area at the weekend.

AN SSPCA investigation is underway after 21 pet rats were found abandoned in the West Lothian area on Saturday.

Officers were alerted after a group of female rats were discovered huddled together by the side of a single track road near North Street in Armadale.

Just over an hour later, the SSPCA were then called to rescue 13 male rats who were found loose in the garden of an empty house in Livingston.

The rats are now in the care of the Scottish SPCA's Edinburgh and Lothians Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre.

Inspector June Chalcroft said, "We believe these abandonments may be linked given the close proximity of both locations and the fact all the

rats are white with grey markings.

"Although eight rats were initially reported in Armadale, when I arrived they had scattered and only three remained. There was woodland nearby so, sadly, it's possible they have run in there and likely they will never be found.

"We are very keen to trace whoever is responsible for these cruel and irresponsible abandonments and we would urge anyone with information to contact us.

"All the rats are friendly and in good condition and we'll soon find them loving new homes with responsible owners."

Abandoning an animal is an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.